1. Appropriate data collection is a critical component in obtaining useful data for your research. Using your proposed research topic and research questions, explain your plan for data collection. Discuss potential issues in your data collection plan and your plans to overcome these challenges. 2 paragraph, 1 credible source
2. Conducting research with strong ethical principles is a critical component of being an effective nurse researcher. Are ethics in research clear cut, or do you think there are some gray areas? Explain your answer. How will you ensure that your research is conducted in an ethical manner? What potential challenges might you face? 2 paragraph, 1 credible source
3. Presentation Reflection and Analysis: Read assignment word doc attached to answer discussion below
Consider what you’ve learned about the topic you presented.
- How does this topic relate to something you might see in clinical practice?
- Which ideas make the most sense and why?
- How does this topic to current events?
- What might make this problem more treatable?
The thyroid gland is a tiny, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that can become ill with either
hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. An overactive thyroid gland that produces too many thyroid
hormones is called hyperthyroidism. An elevated metabolic rate brought on by this illness
results in symptoms including unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, palpitations, anxiety,
and sensitivity to heat (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2021).
Hypothyroidism, on the other hand, denotes an underactive thyroid gland that produces
inadequate thyroid hormones. Fatigue, weight gain, susceptibility to colds, depression, and dry
skin are some of the symptoms it causes, along with a decreased metabolic rate. Both
hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can have an impact on mental health. Depression, mood
fluctuations, and cognitive impairment are all signs of hypothyroidism. People could always feel
drained, unmotivated, and have trouble focusing (Jurado-Flores et al., 2022). Both diseases
must be appropriately diagnosed and treated to restore the balance of thyroid hormones and
relieve the symptoms they cause in various bodily systems.
Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition where the immune system unintentionally generates
antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to excessively manufacture thyroid hormones, is the
primary cause of hyperthyroidism. Thyroxine and triiodothyronine are the main thyroid
hormones produced and released due to this excessive stimulation (Jansen et al., 2023).
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks and
damages the thyroid gland, is a common cause of hypothyroidism. The thyroid cannot create
enough thyroid hormones due to this damage. The surgical removal of the thyroid gland,
radiation treatment, or certain drugs are more reasons for hypothyroidism (Jurado-Flores et al.,
2022).
Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland that produces fewer thyroid
hormones. Typical symptoms include constant weariness, unexpected weight gain, and
increased sensitivity to cold temperatures. Dry skin, hair loss, and brittle nails are common
symptoms of hypothyroidism and are signs of delayed metabolic processes (Jansen et al., 2023).
People may also have constipation, muscular weakness, and a decreased heart rate in addition
to these physical symptoms. Depression, memory issues, and difficulties focusing are frequent
mental health issues. Myxedema, a disorder marked by widespread swelling, facial puffiness,
and a deepening of the voice, can develop from hypothyroidism in extreme instances (Jansen et
al., 2023).
The reproductive system can be significantly impacted by hypothyroidism. Women may
experience irregular menstrual cycles, excessive bleeding, or even trouble becoming pregnant.
Women with untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy are more likely to experience issues
such as miscarriage, preeclampsia, and premature delivery (Jansen et al., 2023). Infants born to
moms with untreated hypothyroidism may also struggle with developmental problems like slow
growth, cognitive decline, and weak muscles. In addition to altering menstrual cycles and
decreasing female fertility, it can impact reproductive health.
Hyperthyroidism is characterized by an overactive thyroid gland that produces excess thyroid
hormone. Symptoms of this illness frequently include unexpected weight loss, an increase in
hunger, and a sensitivity to heat (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney
Diseases, 2021). Due to the increased metabolic processes, people with hyperthyroidism may
feel a fast heartbeat, palpitations, and elevated blood pressure. Hand shaking, profuse
perspiration, and skin thinning are more physical signs. Anxiety, restlessness, and irritability are
only a few psychological symptoms (Jurado-Flores et al., 2022). In some circumstances, a goiter,
or enlargement of the thyroid gland, may be seen in the neck region, providing additional
evidence of the gland’s hyperactivity.
Hyperthyroidism can cause a faster heartbeat, higher blood pressure, and more stress on the
cardiovascular system. As a result, conditions like atrial fibrillation, a fast and irregular heartbeat
that raises the risk of stroke, might appear. Higher levels of anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
may be brought on by Hyperthyroidism (Jurado-Flores et al., 2022). People could have racing
thoughts, trouble concentrating, and even panic attacks. In order to properly manage both
hyperthyroidism, it is necessary to recognize that the intensity and range of symptoms might
differ from person to person (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases,
2021). A skilled healthcare professional’s accurate diagnosis and treatment are therefore
crucial.